Device for winding and unwinding an electric cable for a self-propelled work machine

Abstract

An apparatus (1; 200) for winding and unwinding power cables of a self-propelled machine, the apparatus comprising: a cable winder (10; 210) configured to wind and unwind a power cable (100; 1000), the power cable having a first segment (100a; 1001) wound on the cable winder (10; 210) and a second segment (102; 1002) unwound from the cable winder (10; 210); and a cable guide assembly (15; 215) configured to engage the second segment (102; 1002). To guide the power cable (100; 1000) from the winding and / or unwinding of the cable reel (10; 210); a tensioner (25; 225), mounted on the cable guide assembly (15; 215) and configured to engage the second segment (102; 1002) to pull the tensioned section (106; 1006) of the second segment (102; 1002) extending from the cable reel (10; 210) to the tensioner (25; 225) in an unwinding direction (S) away from the cable reel (10; 210).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of self-propelled cable power supply machinery. Specifically, this invention relates to a device for winding and unwinding power cables for self-propelled machinery. Summary of the Invention

[0002] In the context of this specification, self-propelled construction machinery is defined as a vehicle capable of moving and operating on generally uneven or poorly traction terrain. Examples of self-propelled construction machinery include earthmoving machinery, mining machinery, demolition machinery, combine harvesters, etc.

[0003] Electric self-propelled cable-powered work machines capable of operating in confined spaces have been developed. In these machines, an electrical supply provides the necessary power for the movement and / or motion of the corresponding working attachments (such as earthmoving shovels). The electrical supply can be direct (via an electric motor) or indirect (e.g., via a hydraulic system pressurized by one or more electric pumps).

[0004] These operational machines typically require significant amounts of electricity, making the integration of onboard batteries inconvenient. Providing power cables for such machines allows the necessary high power to be delivered without increasing weight.

[0005] The power for this type of work machinery is provided by a normally fixed high-voltage power source located near the work area of ​​the machinery.

[0006] Power cables typically consist of multiple electrical conductors with cross-sectional dimensions determined by the amount of electricity to be transmitted, and one or more sheaths that separate the conductors from each other and protect them from environmental conditions. The conductors within a power cable are sized to carry current, typically alternating current, with voltages between 400V and 36kV, strengths between 200A and 800A, and power between 80kW and 30MW. The sheaths are configured and sized to protect the conductors under the environmental conditions of the operating machinery.

[0007] The dimensions of the conductor and sheath typically make power cables relatively heavy and have limited mechanical flexibility.

[0008] In operation, the power cable is unwound on the ground between the work machinery and the power source, and is exposed to typically harsh environmental conditions and the risk of damage from the operation of the work machinery (e.g., the work machinery may crush the power cable with its tracks or wheels).

[0009] To prevent the length of cables on the ground from obstructing the operation of the machinery, a cable reel installed on the machinery is used. This reel is configured to wind up the excess portion of the cable and unwind the portion of the cable covering the distance between the machinery and the power source.

[0010] Cable reels apply a typically constant winding force to power cables to wind the excess cable to the ground.

[0011] Therefore, when the working machinery moves away from the power source, it applies a pulling force to the power cable, overcoming the winding force applied by the cable reel and causing it to unwind, thus laying the power cable on the ground behind the working machinery. On the other hand, when the working machinery approaches the power source, the winding force applied by the cable reel allows it to wind up any excess power cable.

[0012] The applicant observed that by constantly keeping the power cable taut between the power source and the cable reel, it tends to wear and is easily damaged. The applicant noted, for example, that when operating machinery moves laterally relative to the cable laid on the ground, the cable tends to crawl laterally along the ground following the machinery. Under these conditions, the sheath is stressed, and the power cable may strike obstacles on the ground, posing a risk of damage or jamming.

[0013] The applicant further noted that by keeping the power cable taut between the power source and the cable reel at all times, the angle between the power cable and the working machinery may become undesirable in certain situations, such as when the working machinery moves at an angle relative to the cable laying direction from the cable reel to the power source during operation. This could lead to, for example, the power cable being crushed by the working machinery.

[0014] The applicant recognizes that, in order to reduce wear and tear on power cables, the tension on the power cables laid on the ground between the cable reel and the power source can be reduced or eliminated. This will reduce the risk of wear and damage to the power cables.

[0015] The applicant recognizes that, in order to reduce or eliminate tension on power cables on the ground, unwinding and winding can be controlled by driving a cable reel to adjust the unwound cable length according to parameters representing the movement of the operating machinery and / or its position in the work area. Therefore, cable unwinding will not occur by pulling the cable on the ground between the power source and the cable reel, and the dragging effect of the cable on the ground can be avoided or reduced.

[0016] Therefore, in its first aspect, the present invention relates to an apparatus for winding and unwinding power cables of a self-propelled machine.

[0017] Preferably, a cable reel is provided. The cable reel is configured to wind and unwind an electrical cable having a first section wound on the cable reel and a second section unwound from the cable reel.

[0018] Preferably, a cable guiding assembly is provided. The cable guiding assembly is configured to engage the second segment to guide the power cable from the winding and / or unwinding of the cable winder.

[0019] Preferably, a tensioner is provided. The tensioner is mounted on the cable guide assembly and configured to engage the second segment to pull a tensioned section of the second segment in a direction guiding unwinding away from the cable winder, the tensioned section extending from the cable winder to the tensioner.

[0020] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a self-propelled working machinery assembly.

[0021] Preferably, an electric self-propelled work machine is provided. The self-propelled work machine includes at least one electric motion actuator configured to actuate the movement of the work machine and / or at least one electric work actuator configured to drive at least one working attachment of the work machine.

[0022] Preferably, a device according to the first aspect is provided, which is installed on the operating machinery.

[0023] Preferably, a power cable is provided. The power cable is at least partially wound on the cable reel of the device and electrically connected to a power source and the working machinery to power the at least one motion actuator and / or at least one working actuator.

[0024] The applicant discovered that maintaining tension in the tensioned section allows for the correct and neat winding and unwinding of the power cable from the cable reel according to operational requirements. By using a tensioner mounted on the device to provide tension to the tensioned section, the length of the power cable extending from the tensioner to the power source remains untensioned, thereby reducing the risk of wear and damage.

[0025] A cable winder can rotate about a pivot axis to wind and unwind power cables. In this specification and the appended claims, terms such as "axial" and "axially" refer to a direction parallel to the pivot axis.

[0026] The device is configured for use in an operating configuration with a generally predetermined position relative to the ground. In this predetermined position, the pivot axis of the cable reel is horizontally oriented. In this specification and the appended claims, terms such as "horizontal," "horizontally," "vertical," "above," and "below" refer to this predetermined position.

[0027] Terms such as “lateral” and “laterally” refer to a direction that is perpendicular to the pivot axis and horizontally oriented relative to the predetermined position of the device in the operating configuration.

[0028] Power cables have a main longitudinal direction of extension. The term "winding direction" refers to the direction aligned with the longitudinal direction of the power cable and pointing towards the cable winder. The term "unwinding direction" refers to the direction aligned with the longitudinal direction of the power cable and opposite to the winding direction.

[0029] The term "electric" refers to an actuator that has direct or indirect electricity, such as an electric motor or hydraulic motor that is driven by pressurized hydraulic fluid and moved by one or more electric pumps.

[0030] In at least one of the foregoing aspects, the present invention may be implemented according to one or more preferred embodiments that may be combined with each other.

[0031] Preferably, the tensioner is configured to pull the tensioned section in the unwinding direction during the winding of the power cable on the cable winder.

[0032] Preferably, the tensioner is configured to pull the tensioned section in the unwinding direction during the unwinding of the power cable from the cable reel.

[0033] Preferably, the cable winder is configured to pull the tension section in the unwinding direction when the power cable is neither wound nor unwound.

[0034] Preferably, the cable reel is configured to control the length of the unwound power cable according to the operational needs of the self-propelled machinery powered by the power cable.

[0035] Preferably, the tensioner is configured to maintain tension on the tensioned section in the unwinding direction.

[0036] Preferably, the tensioner is configured to maintain a predetermined tension, preferably a substantially constant tension, on the tensioned section in the unwinding direction.

[0037] Preferably, a control unit is provided.

[0038] Preferably, the control unit is configured to drive the cable reel to adjust the length of the power cable unwound from the cable reel.

[0039] Preferably, the cable reel is feedback-controlled to control the length of the power cable unwound from the cable reel.

[0040] Preferably, the cable reel is feedback-controlled so as to control the length of the unwound power cable according to the operational needs of the self-propelled machinery.

[0041] Preferably, at least one sensor is provided. The at least one sensor is configured to measure operating parameters related to the self-propelled operating machinery, such as position and / or direction of movement and / or speed.

[0042] Preferably, the control unit is configured to drive the cable winder based on signals received from the at least one sensor to adjust the length of the unwound power cable.

[0043] Preferably, the control unit is configured to unwind a power cable from the cable reel by a length longer than the distance between the working machine and the power source.

[0044] Preferably, the control unit is configured to unwind the power cable from the cable reel to a length sufficient to keep the distal portion of the power cable extending between the device and the power source unstressed.

[0045] Preferably, the tensioner comprises two drag surfaces facing each other.

[0046] Preferably, the drag surface is flat.

[0047] Preferably, the drag surface is configured to receive a portion of the second segment therebetween.

[0048] Preferably, the drag surfaces are configured to frictionally hold the portion of the second segment placed between them.

[0049] Preferably, the drag surfaces are configured to press against the portion of the second segment placed between them.

[0050] Preferably, the tensioner is configured to apply a predetermined force to the dragging surface in the unwinding direction.

[0051] Preferably, the drag surface is movable in the unwinding direction during the unwinding of the power cable from the cable reel.

[0052] Preferably, during the winding of the power cable on the cable winder, the drag surface is movable in the winding direction opposite to the unwinding direction.

[0053] Preferably, the drag surfaces are configured to adhere to portions of the power cable placed between them without slipping.

[0054] Preferably, the drag surface can be moved by being dragged by the power cable.

[0055] Preferably, the tensioner comprises two tensioning bands wound on a closed path, on which a so-called drag surface is defined.

[0056] Preferably, the cable winder is configured to drive the winding of the power cable by overcoming the tension applied to the tensioned section by the tensioner in the unwinding direction.

[0057] Preferably, the winding of the power cable on the cable winder is performed by driving the cable winder such that the traction force applied by the cable winder to the tension section in the winding direction overcomes the traction force applied by the tensioner in the unwinding direction.

[0058] Preferably, the winding direction is directed toward the cable winder.

[0059] Preferably, the winding direction is opposite to the unwinding direction.

[0060] Preferably, maintaining a constant length of the power cable unwound from the cable winder is achieved by driving the cable winder such that the traction force applied by the cable winder to the tensioned section in the winding direction is approximately equal to the traction force applied by the tensioner in the unwinding direction.

[0061] Preferably, the cable guiding assembly is configured to guide the guided portion of the second segment along the guiding axis.

[0062] Preferably, the cable guiding assembly is configured to guide the guided portion of the second segment in both the unwinding and winding directions.

[0063] Preferably, the tensioner is configured to engage the guided portion of the second segment.

[0064] Preferably, the dragging surface is parallel to the winding direction and the unwinding direction.

[0065] Preferably, a cleaning member is provided. The cleaning member is mounted on the cable guide assembly and configured to engage the second segment to clean the second segment, wherein the tensioner is installed between the cleaning member and the cable reel.

[0066] Preferably, the cleaning member is configured to engage the guided portion of the second segment.

[0067] Preferably, the cleaning component includes multiple brushes, and more preferably two brushes.

[0068] Preferably, each brush of the cleaning component includes a cleaning surface.

[0069] Preferably, multiple bristles are arranged on the cleaning surface.

[0070] Preferably, the cleaning member is configured to receive a portion of the second segment between two cleaning surfaces facing each other.

[0071] Preferably, the cleaning member is configured to clean the second segment by moving the cleaning surface in the unwinding direction.

[0072] Preferably, moving the cleaning surface in the unwinding direction allows the cleaning member to rub against the power cable to remove dirt and impurities, and guides the removed material away from the cable winder and / or tensioner.

[0073] Preferably, the cleaned surface is flat.

[0074] Preferably, the cleaning surface is movable along the guide axis.

[0075] Preferably, the cleaning surface is defined on a corresponding brush strip wound along a closed path.

[0076] Preferably, the cable reel is mounted to rotate about a pivot axis.

[0077] Preferably, the cable reel is mounted on the frame.

[0078] Preferably, the cable guiding assembly includes a carriage slidably mounted on the frame, the sliding direction of which is parallel to the pivot axis.

[0079] Preferably, the carriage is driven alternately along the sliding direction to follow the winding of the power cable on the cable winder and / or the unwinding of the power cable from the cable winder.

[0080] Preferably, the cable guiding assembly includes a plurality of guiding members.

[0081] Preferably, the guide member is configured to guide the guided portion of the second segment. Preferably, the guide member is configured to guide the guided portion of the second segment along a guide axis.

[0082] Preferably, the guide member includes a plurality of rollers.

[0083] Preferably, the guiding member includes a proximal guiding member and a distal guiding member.

[0084] Preferably, the guided portion extends between the proximal guiding member and the distal guiding member.

[0085] Preferably, the distal guide member is mounted further away from the cable reel than the proximal guide member.

[0086] Preferably, the proximal guide member is movable together with the carriage in the sliding direction.

[0087] Preferably, the distal guide member is mounted at the distal end of the arm.

[0088] Preferably, the guide axis extends from the proximal guide member to the distal guide member.

[0089] Preferably, the tensioner is installed between the proximal guide member and the distal guide member.

[0090] Preferably, the cleaning member is installed between the proximal guide member and the distal guide member to engage the guided portion.

[0091] Preferably, the proximal guide member is configured to engage the tensioning section of the second segment.

[0092] Preferably, the cable guiding assembly includes an arm.

[0093] Preferably, the arm extends from the proximal end to the distal end away from the cable reel.

[0094] Preferably, the arm extends parallel to the guide axis from the proximal end to the distal end.

[0095] Preferably, the tensioner is mounted on the arm.

[0096] Preferably, the cleaning component is mounted on the arm.

[0097] Preferably, the distance between the tensioner and the distal guide member is less than 1 meter, more preferably less than 0.7 meters, and even more preferably less than 0.5 meters.

[0098] In the first embodiment, the arm is mounted on the carriage.

[0099] Preferably, the arm is integrated with the carriage.

[0100] Preferably, the arm is movable together with the carriage in the sliding direction.

[0101] Preferably, the guide member is mounted on the arm. Preferably, all of the guide members are mounted on the arm.

[0102] Preferably, the proximal guiding member is mounted at the proximal end of the arm.

[0103] Preferably, the tensioner is movable together with the carriage in the sliding direction.

[0104] Preferably, the cleaning component is movable together with the carriage in the sliding direction.

[0105] Preferably, the distal guide member is movable together with the carriage in the sliding direction.

[0106] Preferably, the length of the arm is between 1 meter and 3 meters, more preferably between 1.5 meters and 2 meters, and even more preferably between 1.6 meters and 1.8 meters.

[0107] Preferably, the distance between the distal guiding member and the point where the power cable separates from the cable reel is equal to or less than 2 meters.

[0108] In the second embodiment, the arm is connected to the frame independently of the carriage.

[0109] Preferably, the arm protrudes from the frame.

[0110] Preferably, the arm is movable relative to the frame independently of the carriage.

[0111] Preferably, the proximal guiding member is not mounted on the arm.

[0112] Preferably, the arm cannot move together with the carriage in the sliding direction.

[0113] Preferably, the arm is hinged to the frame at its proximal end.

[0114] Preferably, the arm is rotatable relative to the carriage about a hinge axis, the hinge axis being perpendicular to the plane containing the pivot axis.

[0115] Preferably, the arm is movable to change the orientation of the guide axis relative to the cable winder.

[0116] Preferably, the arm is configured such that, in an operational configuration, the distal end of the arm is placed close to the ground.

[0117] Preferably, the distance between the distal guiding member and the point where the power cable separates from the cable reel is greater than 2 meters, and more preferably equal to or greater than 2.5 meters.

[0118] Preferably, the proximal guide member can move independently of the distal guide member along the sliding direction together with the carriage. Attached Figure Description

[0119] The features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description of some embodiments thereof, which are provided by way of non-limiting example only, wherein reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0120] Figure 1A A schematic diagram of an apparatus for winding and unwinding a power cable for a self-propelled work machinery according to the present invention is shown in its operational configuration mounted on the work machinery;

[0121] Figure 1B A detailed schematic diagram of the operational configuration of the device for winding and unwinding power cables for a self-propelled machine according to the present invention is shown.

[0122] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1BA three-dimensional view of the device;

[0123] Figure 3 It shows Figure 1B A top view of the device;

[0124] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1B A side view of the device;

[0125] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1B A cross-sectional view of the device;

[0126] Figure 6 A schematic side view of an apparatus for winding and unwinding power cables for a self-propelled machine is shown according to various embodiments of the present invention;

[0127] Figure 7 It shows Figure 6 A top view of the device. Detailed Implementation

[0128] A first embodiment of a device for winding and unwinding power cables for self-propelled machinery (which is the purpose of this invention) is described in Figures 1A to 5 The device is generally represented by reference numeral 1 in the attached figure and will be referred to hereinafter by the abbreviation "device 1".

[0129] The device 1 can be mounted on the working machinery 110 (preferably an electric earthmoving machine) and is configured to wind and unwind the power cable 100, the power cable 100 having a distal end 101 connected to the power source 101a, such as... Figure 1A As shown schematically.

[0130] The work machinery 110 is self-propelled and includes at least one motion actuator configured to drive the work machinery 110's motion wheel or track 110a, and at least one working actuator configured to drive the work attachment 110b (e.g., a mechanical earthmoving shovel) of the work machinery 110.

[0131] The device 1 includes a frame 5 configured to support the following components. The frame 5 includes two parallel axial elements 6, which are beam-like. The frame 5 also includes two transverse elements 7, which are beam-like and parallel to each other and perpendicular to the axial elements 6.

[0132] The axial element 6 and the transverse element 7 of the frame 5 define a rectangular profile. The frame 5 can be mounted on the working machine 110 at a position raised above the ground. To attach the frame 5 to the working machine 110, two connecting parts 8 are provided at one of the axial elements 6.

[0133] The frame 5 includes an axially oriented sliding guide 9. The sliding guide 9 is defined by one of the axial elements 6 and is opposite to the connecting portion 8.

[0134] Cable reel 10 is mounted on frame 5. Cable reel 10 is rotatable about pivot axis R. Frame 5 is configured to support cable reel 10 in a raised position from the ground. Cable reel 10 is rotatably hinged to transverse element 7. Cable reel 10 is arranged within the rectangular profile of frame 5, between axial elements 6 and between transverse elements 7. In particular, cable reel 10 is positioned between connecting portion 8 and sliding guide 9.

[0135] The cable winder 10 includes a flanged drum 11 rotatable about a pivot axis R. The cable winder 10 is configured to wind and unwind the power cable 100.

[0136] Power cable 100 is configured to supply electrical current to working machinery 110. The electrical current is sufficient to power the actuators of working machinery 110. Preferably, working machinery 110 includes one or more electric pumps (not shown) powered by power cable 100 and a hydraulic system (not shown) configured to pressurize and drive one or more hydraulic motors of working machinery. For example, in a preferred embodiment, motion actuators include electric motors directly powered by power cable 100, while work actuators include hydraulic motors driven by the hydraulic system.

[0137] The power cable 100 is configured to transmit high-voltage alternating current to the operating machinery 110.

[0138] The power cable 100 includes a plurality of conductors sized according to the current to be transmitted and one or more protective sheaths covering the conductors.

[0139] The rotary actuator 12 (preferably hydraulic) is configured to apply torque to the cable winder 10 and cause the cable winder 10 to rotate about the rotation axis R to wind or unwind the power cable 100. The rotary actuator 12 is preferably driven by the hydraulic system of the working machine 110.

[0140] A rotating current collector (not shown) is arranged in the drum 11 to electrically connect the proximal end (not shown) of the power cable 100 to the working machine 110, particularly to the power unit of its electric actuator and / or electric pump.

[0141] The rotary current collector is configured to maintain electrical contact between the power supply 101a and the working machine 110 via the power cable 100, regardless of the angular position of the drum 11 about the pivot axis R.

[0142] In operation, the first segment 100a of the power cable 100 (including its proximal end) is wound onto the cable winder 10. The second segment 102 of the power cable 100 (adjacent to the first segment 100a and including the distal end 101) is unwound from the cable winder 10 and directed toward the working machine 110.

[0143] The device 1 includes a cable guide assembly 15 configured to guide a second segment 102 during unwinding of the cable winder 10, so as to allow the power cable 100 to be wound onto and unwound from the cable winder 10 in an orderly manner.

[0144] The cable guiding assembly 15 includes a carriage 16, which is slidably mounted on the frame 5 along an axial sliding direction D. The carriage 16 is mounted on a sliding guide 9 and slides along the sliding guide in the axial sliding direction D. The sliding guide 9 is shaped as a guide for the carriage 16.

[0145] The carriage 16 includes a plurality of sliding rollers 17 configured to engage the sliding guide 9. Some of the sliding rollers 17 are arranged vertically above the sliding guide 9, and the others are arranged vertically below the sliding guide 9. The sliding rollers 17 are configured to constrain the carriage 16 along the axial direction of the sliding guide 9 and prevent rotation.

[0146] A sliding actuator (not shown) is arranged on the frame 5 for sliding the carriage 16 on the sliding guide 9.

[0147] The carriage 16 includes an arm 18. The main extension direction of the arm 18 lies in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis R. The main extension direction of the arm 18 is approximately tangent to the drum 11. The main extension direction of the arm 18 is also inclined relative to the lateral direction. The length of the arm 18 is between 1 meter and 3 meters, preferably between 1.5 meters and 2 meters, and more preferably between 1.6 meters and 1.8 meters.

[0148] Arm 18 extends from proximal end 18a to distal end 18b along its main extension direction. Proximal end 18a is closer to cable reel 10 than distal end 18b. Arm 18 is tilted such that, in the operating configuration of device 1, proximal end 18a is arranged higher above the ground than distal end 18b.

[0149] The cable guiding assembly 15 includes a plurality of guide members 20 mounted on the arm 18 and configured to engage the guided portion 103 of the second segment 102. The guide members 20 are configured to orient the guided portion 103 along a guide axis X. The guide axis X is parallel to the main extension direction of the arm 18. During the winding of the power cable 100 onto the cable winder 10, the guide members 20 are configured to guide the guided portion 103 in a winding direction A parallel to the guide axis X and pointing towards the cable winder 10. During the unwinding of the power cable 100 from the cable winder 10, the guide members 20 are configured to guide the guided portion 103 in an unwinding direction S parallel to the guide axis X and pointing away from the cable winder 10.

[0150] The guide member 20 includes a plurality of proximal guide members 21 disposed at the proximal end 18a. During unwinding of the power cable 100, the proximal guide members 21 are configured to receive the proximal portion 104 of the power cable 100 just unwound from the cable winder 10 and turn it along the unwinding direction S. During winding of the power cable 100, the proximal guide members 21 are configured to guide the portion 103 to be guided toward the cable winder 10.

[0151] The proximal guide member 21 includes a plurality of rollers, preferably four rollers. The proximal guide member 21 defines an opening 22 configured to be through which the second segment 102 of the power cable 100 passes. The opening 22 has a cross section perpendicular to the guide axis X. The proximal guide member 21 is arranged along the sides of the quadrilateral (preferably square) perimeter of the opening 22.

[0152] The guide member 20 includes a plurality of distal guide members 23 disposed at the distal end 18b. During the winding of the power cable 100, the distal guide members 23 are configured to receive the distal portion 105 of the second segment 102 located on the ground and orient it toward the winding direction A. During the unwinding of the power cable 100, the distal guide members 23 are configured to release the guided portion 103, allowing it to be oriented relative to the unwinding direction S, for example toward the working machinery 110.

[0153] The distal guide member 23 includes a plurality of rollers arranged to define a channel 24 through which the power cable 100 passes. The channel 24 has a quadrilateral cross-section, preferably square, perpendicular to the guide axis X. The cross-section of the channel 24 increases with distance from the cable reel 10.

[0154] The remote guide component 23 is installed at a distance of 2 meters from point 102a, which is located between the first segment 100a and the second segment 102a. At this point, the power cable 100 is separated from the winder 10.

[0155] Tensioner 25 is mounted on cable guide assembly 15. Tensioner 25 is configured to engage the second segment 102 to pull it in the unwinding direction S. Therefore, tensioner 25 applies tension to the tensioned section 106 of the second segment 102 extending between cable reel 10 and tensioner 25. Tensioner 25 is mounted on arm 18 along guide axis X. Tensioner 25 is arranged between proximal guide member 21 and distal guide member 23.

[0156] Figure 5 A cross-section of a preferred embodiment of the tensioner 25 is shown. The tensioner 25 includes two tensioning bands 26, which are opposite and face each other relative to the guide axis X. Each tensioning band 26 is wound along a closed path on a corresponding tensioning roller 27. At least one of the tensioning rollers 27 is motorized to drive the tensioning band 26 along the closed path.

[0157] Each tension band 26 includes a flat drag surface 28 extending between two corresponding tension rollers 27. The drag surface 28 is parallel to the guide axis X and preferably perpendicular to the rotation axis R. The drag surfaces 28 of the two tension bands 26 face each other. Each drag surface 28 can move parallel to the guide axis X as the respective tension bands 26 move along their respective closed paths.

[0158] The drag surfaces 28 of the two tension bands 26 face each other and define a channel 29 between them for the guided portion 103 of the second segment 102 oriented along the guide axis X. The drag surfaces 28 are configured to receive the guided portion 103 between them in the channel 29 and press against the guided portion 103 to apply frictional force to it.

[0159] By applying frictional force through the drag surfaces 28, the tensioner 25 is configured to clamp a portion of the power cable 100 positioned between the drag surfaces 28. The tensioner 25 can be driven to pull the portion of the power cable 100 positioned between the drag surfaces 28 in the unwinding direction S. Thus, the tensioner 25 can keep the tensioned section 106 of the second segment 102 under tension.

[0160] During the winding of the power cable 100, the drag surface 28 is movable in the winding direction A; during the unwinding of the power cable 100, the drag surface 28 is movable in the unwinding direction S. The drag surface 28 is configured to drag a portion of the power cable 100 placed between it in the unwinding direction S during the unwinding of the power cable 100 to maintain tension in the tension section 106 of the second segment 102. The drag surface 28 is also configured to be dragged by this portion of the power cable 100 placed between the drag surfaces in the winding direction A during the winding of the power cable 100, while maintaining tension in the tension section 106 of the second segment 102.

[0161] The guide member 20 includes a first tension roller 30 mounted on an arm 18 between the tensioner 25 and the proximal guide member 21. The guide member 20 also includes a second tension roller 31 mounted on the arm 18 between the tensioner 25 and the distal guide member 23. The first tension roller 30 and the second tension roller 31 are configured to accompany the guided portion 103 of the power cable 100 within the tensioner 25, particularly between the drag surfaces 28.

[0162] The first tension roller 30 includes a pair of rollers configured to receive the guided portion 103 therebetween. Similarly, the second tension roller 31 includes a pair of rollers configured to receive the guided portion 103 therebetween.

[0163] The guide member 20 is configured to guide the guided portion 103 through the tensioner 25 oriented parallel to the guide axis X, regardless of the orientation of the proximal portion 104 and the distal portion 105 of the second segment 102.

[0164] A cleaning component 32 is mounted on the cable guide assembly 15. The cleaning component 32 is configured to engage the guided portion 103 of the second segment 102 to remove dirt and impurities, such as soil, mud, dust, or sand, collected by the unwound portion of the power cable 100 located on the ground. Specifically, the cleaning component 32 is configured to remove dirt and impurities from the power cable 100 during winding, before it reaches the tensioner 25, so that they do not penetrate between the drag surfaces 28.

[0165] The cleaning component 32 is mounted on the arm 18 located between the tensioner 25 and the distal guide component 23 along the guide axis X.

[0166] Figure 5 A cross-sectional embodiment of a preferred embodiment of the cleaning member 32 is shown. The cleaning member 32 includes two brushes 33 that are opposite and face each other relative to the guide axis X. Each brush 33 includes a brush strip 34 wound along a closed path on a brush roller 35, at least one of the brush rollers 35 being motorized to move the brush strip 34 along the closed path. Each brush 33 is provided with a plurality of bristles that protrude from a corresponding brush strip 34 and are movable along the closed path by moving the brush strip 34.

[0167] Each brush 33 includes a brush band 34 comprising a flat cleaning surface 36 extending between two brush rollers 35. The cleaning surface 36 is parallel to the guide axis X and preferably perpendicular to the pivot axis R. The cleaning surface 36 can be moved along the guide axis X by moving the brush band 34 along a closed path.

[0168] The cleaning surfaces 36 of the two brush bands 34 face each other and define a channel 37 for the guided portion 103 of the second segment 102. The bristles of the brush 33 are configured to contact a portion of the power cable 100 placed between the cleaning surfaces 36 in the channel 37.

[0169] The cleaning member 32 is configured to move the cleaning surface 36 in the unwinding direction S during the winding of the power cable 100, so that the bristles move in the opposite direction to the portion of the power cable 100 placed between the cleaning surfaces 36 in the channel 37. Thus, the bristles rub against the portion of the power cable 100 placed between the cleaning surfaces 36 and pointing towards the tensioner 25, removing dirt.

[0170] The guide member 20 includes a first cleaning member roller 38 mounted on an arm 18 between the cleaning member 32 and the tensioner 25 (particularly between the cleaning member 32 and the second tensioning roller 31). The guide member 20 also includes a second cleaning member roller 39 mounted on the arm 18 between the cleaning member 32 and the distal guide member 23. The first and second cleaning member rollers 38 and 39 are configured to accompany the guided portion 103 of the power cable 100 within the cleaning member 32, particularly between the cleaning surfaces 36.

[0171] The first cleaning member roller 38 includes a pair of rollers configured to receive the guided portion 103 between them. Similarly, the second cleaning member roller 39 includes a pair of rollers configured to receive the guided portion 103 between them.

[0172] The guide member 20 is configured to guide the guided portion 103 through the cleaning member 32 oriented parallel to the guide axis X, regardless of the orientation of the proximal portion 104 and the distal portion 105 of the second segment 102.

[0173] The carriage 16 can move axially in an alternating manner to follow the winding and unwinding of the power cable 100 on the cable reel 10, and is guided by means of the proximal guide member 21. The guide member 20, tensioner 25 and cleaning member 32 move axially integrally with the carriage 16.

[0174] In operation, the unwinding of the power cable 100 from the cable reel 10 depends on the position and needs of the working machine 110. For example, a sensor 111 (e.g., a GNSS-type position sensor) mounted on the working machine 110 detects its position, and a control unit 112 mounted on the device 1 or the working machine 110 controls the unwinding of the power cable 100 from the cable reel 10 based on the signal received from the sensor 111.

[0175] The cable reel 10 is driven to adjust the length of the unwound power cable 100 according to the operational requirements of the working machinery 110. The cable reel 10 is feedback-driven to adjust the length of the unwound power cable 100. The tensioner 25 is driven to maintain a substantially constant tension on the tension section 106 by applying force to the tension section 106 in the unwound direction S opposite to that of the cable reel 10. Therefore, the cable reel 10 is able to unwound a length of power cable 100 such that the distal portion 105 is not under tension. The tension applied to the tension section 106 by the tensioner 25 enables the cable reel 10 to wind and unwound the power cable 100 in an orderly manner.

[0176] A second embodiment of the apparatus for winding and unwinding power cables for self-propelled machinery (which is the purpose of this invention) is described in... Figure 6 and Figure 7 The device is generally represented by the reference numeral 200 in the attached drawing and will be referred to hereinafter by the abbreviation "device 200".

[0177] Device 200 is conceptually similar to device 1, except for the variations described below.

[0178] The device 200 includes a frame 205, which is conceptually similar to frame 5. Frame 205 includes an axially oriented sliding guide 209, which is conceptually similar to sliding guide 9.

[0179] Cable reel 210 is mounted on frame 205 and is conceptually similar to cable reel 10. Cable reel 210 is rotatable about pivot axis R. Frame 205 is configured to support cable reel 210 in a raised position above the ground. Cable reel 210 is configured to wind and unwind power cable 1000, which is conceptually similar to power cable 100.

[0180] In operation, the first segment 1001 of the power cable 1000 is wound onto the cable winder 210. The second segment 1002 of the power cable 1000 (adjacent to the first segment 1001) is unwound from the cable winder 210 and directed toward the working machinery.

[0181] The device 200 includes a cable guide assembly 215 configured to guide a guided portion 1003 of a second segment 1002 during rotation of the cable winder 210, so as to allow the power cable 1000 to be wound onto and unwound from the cable winder 210 in an orderly manner.

[0182] The cable guiding assembly 215 includes a carriage 216, which is conceptually similar to carriage 16, and is slidably mounted on the frame 205 in the axial direction. The carriage 216 is mounted on the sliding guide 209 and slides axially thereon.

[0183] The cable guiding assembly 215 includes an arm 218. The main extension direction of the arm 218 lies in a plane perpendicular to the pivot axis R. The arm 218 extends from a proximal end 218a to a distal end 218b along its main extension direction. The length of the arm 218 is, for example, between 2 meters and 3 meters.

[0184] The proximal end 218a is closer to the cable reel 210 than the distal end 218b. The arm 218 is inclined such that, in the operating configuration of the device 200, the proximal end 218a is arranged higher above the ground than the distal end 218b. The distal end 218b is configured to be positioned on the ground at a distance of less than 30 cm (preferably less than 20 cm, and even more preferably less than 10 cm) from the ground.

[0185] Arm 218 is hinged to frame 205 at its proximal end 218a. Arm 218 is movable about hinge axis C so that distal end 218b is movable relative to proximal end 218a. Hinge axis C is perpendicular to the plane containing pivot axis R.

[0186] Unlike arm 18 of device 1, arm 218 is not mounted on carriage 216 and does not move axially with carriage 216.

[0187] The cable guiding assembly 215 includes a plurality of guiding members 220 configured to engage the guided portion 1003 of the second segment 1002.

[0188] The guide member 220 includes a plurality of proximal guide members 221 mounted on the carriage 216. The carriage 216 can move axially in an alternating manner to follow the winding and unwinding of the power cable 1000 on the cable winder 210. The proximal guide members 221 move integrally with the carriage 216 to guide the winding and unwinding of the power cable 1000 on the cable winder 210.

[0189] The guide member 220 includes a plurality of distal guide members 223 mounted at the distal end 218b of the arm 218.

[0190] The remote guide member 223 is installed at a location 2.5 meters or more from point 1002a between the first segment 1001 and the second segment 1002, at which point the power cable 1000 is separated from the winder 210.

[0191] Tensioner 225 (conceptually similar to tensioner 25 of device 1) is mounted on arm 218 between proximal guide member 221 and distal guide member 223.

[0192] The guide member 220 includes a first tension roller 230 and a second tension roller 231 mounted on the arm 218. The first tension roller 230 and the second tension roller 231 are similar to the first tension roller 30 and the second tension roller 31 of the device 1, respectively.

[0193] Cleaning component 232 (conceptually similar to cleaning component 32 of device 1) is mounted on arm 218. Cleaning component 32 is mounted on arm 18 located between tensioner 25 and distal guide component 23 along guide axis X.

[0194] The guide member 220 includes a first cleaning member roller 238 and a second cleaning member roller 239 mounted on the arm 218. The first cleaning member roller 238 and the second cleaning member roller 239 are similar to the first cleaning member roller 38 and the second cleaning member roller 39 of the device 1, respectively.

[0195] Unlike device 1, in device 200, the tensioner 225, cleaning member 232, and distal guide member 223 cannot move axially as an integral part of the carriage 216.

Claims

1. A device for winding and unwinding power cables of a self-propelled machine (1; 200), including: A cable reel (10; 210) configured to wind and unwind a power cable (100; 1000) having a first section (100a; 1001) wound on the cable reel (10; 210) and a second section (102; 1002) unwound from the cable reel (10; 210). A cable guide assembly (15; 215) configured to engage the second segment (102; 1002) to guide the power cable (100; 1000) from the winding and / or unwinding of the cable reel (10; 210); Tensioner (25; 225), which is mounted on the cable guide assembly (15; 215) and configured to engage the second segment (102; 1002) to pull the tensioned section (106; 1006) of the second segment (102; 1002) extending from the cable reel (10; 210) to the tensioner (25; 225) in an unwinding direction (S) directed away from the cable reel (10; 210).

2. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 1, wherein: The tensioner (25; 225) is configured to pull the tensioning section (106; 1006) in the unwinding direction (S) during the winding of the power cable (100; 1000) on the cable winder (10; 210), during the unwinding of the power cable (100; 1000) from the cable winder (10; 210), and when the power cable (100; 1000) is neither wound nor unwound.

3. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The cable reel (10; 210) is configured to control the length of the unwound power cable (100; 1000) according to the operational needs of the self-propelled work machinery (110) powered by the power cable (100; 1000), and the tensioner (25; 225) is configured to maintain a predetermined tension on the tensioning section (106; 1006) in the unwound direction (S).

4. The apparatus (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The tensioner (25; 225) includes two drag surfaces (28) facing each other, and the two drag surfaces (28) are configured to receive a portion of the second segment (102; 1002) therebetween, the drag surfaces (28) being configured to frictionally hold said portion of the second segment (102; 1002); and The tensioner (25; 225) is configured to apply a predetermined force to the drag surface (28) in the unwinding direction (S).

5. The device (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims includes a cleaning member (32; 232) mounted on the cable guide assembly (15; 215) and configured to engage the second segment (102; 1002) to clean the second segment (102; 1002).

6. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 5, wherein, The cleaning components (32; 232) include a plurality of brushes (33).

7. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 6, wherein, Each brush (33) of the cleaning component (32; 232) includes a cleaning surface (36).

8. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The cleaning component (32; 232) is configured to receive a portion of the second segment (102; 1002) between two cleaning surfaces (36) facing each other.

9. The apparatus (1; 200) according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The cleaning member (32; 232) is configured to clean the second segment (102) by moving the cleaning surface (36) in the unwinding direction (S).

10. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 9, wherein, Each brush (33) includes a brush belt (34) wound around a brush roller (35) along a closed path, at least one of the brush rollers (35) being motorized to move the brush belt (34) along the closed path, the brush belt (34) including the cleaning surface (36).

11. The apparatus (1; 200) according to claim 10, wherein, Each brush (33) has a plurality of bristles that protrude from the corresponding brush band (34) and can move along the closed path by moving the brush band (34).

12. The apparatus (1; 200) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein, The tensioner (25; 225) is installed between the cleaning component (32; 232) and the cable reel (10; 210).

13. The apparatus (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The cable reel (10; 210) is rotatably mounted on the frame (5; 205) about a pivot axis (R), and the cable guide assembly (15; 215) includes a carriage (16; 216) which is slidably mounted on the frame (5; 205) in a sliding direction (D) parallel to the pivot axis (R); The cable guiding assembly (15; 215) includes a proximal guide member (21; 221) configured to engage the tensioning section (106; 1006) and be movable together with the carriage (16; 216) in the sliding direction (D); The cable guiding assembly (15; 215) includes a distal guiding member (23; 223) configured to engage the second segment (102; 1002) and mounted further from the cable reel (10; 210) relative to the proximal guiding member (21; 221); The proximal guiding member (21; 221) and the distal guiding member (23; 223) are configured to guide a guided portion (103; 1003) of the second segment (102; 1002), the guided portion (103; 1003) extending between the proximal guiding member (21; 221) and the distal guiding member (23; 223); The tensioner (25; 225) is installed between the proximal guide member (21; 221) and the distal guide member (23; 223) to engage the guided portion (103; 1003).

14. The apparatus (1) according to claim 13, wherein, The cable guiding assembly (15) includes an arm (18) mounted on the carriage (16), wherein the proximal guide member (21), the distal guide member (23) and the tensioner (25) are mounted on the arm (18).

15. The apparatus (200) according to claim 14, wherein, The cable guide assembly (215) includes an arm (218) independently connected to the frame (205) relative to the carriage (216), wherein the distal guide member (223) and the tensioner (225) are mounted on the arm (218).

16. The apparatus (200) according to claim 15, wherein, The arm (218) extends from a first end (218a) to a second end (218b), the arm (218a) being hinged to the frame (205) at the first end (218a), and the distal guide member (223) being mounted at the second end (218b).

17. A self-propelled operating machinery assembly, comprising: An electric self-propelled work machine (110) includes at least one electric motion actuator and / or at least one electric working actuator, the at least one electric motion actuator being configured to actuate the movement of the work machine (110), and the at least one electric working actuator being configured to drive at least one working attachment (110b) of the work machine (110). The device (1; 200) according to any one of the preceding claims is mounted on the operating machinery; A power cable (100; 1000) is at least partially wound around a cable winder (10; 210) of the device (1; 200) and electrically connected to a power source (110a) and the working machine (110) to power the at least one motion actuator and / or at least one working actuator.

18. The self-propelled working machinery assembly of claim 17, comprising a control unit (112) configured to drive the cable reel (10; 210) to adjust the length of the power cable (100; 1000) unwound from the cable reel (10; 210), the control unit (112) being configured to unwound the power cable (100; 1000) from the cable reel (10; 210) to a length sufficient to keep the distal portion (105) of the power cable (100; 1000) extending between the device (1; 200) and the power source (110a) unstressed.

19. The self-propelled work machinery assembly of claim 18, comprising at least one sensor (111) configured to measure operating parameters associated with the work machinery (110), wherein, The control unit (112) is configured to drive the cable winder (10; 210) according to a signal received from the at least one sensor (111) to adjust the length of the unwound power cable (100; 1000).

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